Hotel Bahia Blanca — Hotel in Santa Marta

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)

This is definitely a budget hotel — more like a 2-star than a 4-star — but for the price and location it’s hard to complain. The property is older and could use some updates, but it’s right across from the beach and only about a 10-minute walk to the park, restaurants, bars, and the downtown area, which makes it very convenient.

The price is very affordable, and that’s probably why it holds a higher overall rating. A few things to keep in mind: there’s no hot water, the rooms can be noisy (especially those in the front), and the door locks are basic push-button style without a deadbolt or chain. Security didn’t feel like an issue during my stay, but it’s worth being careful with valuables. Housekeeping is also by request, not daily by default.

That said, the location, beach access, and price point make it a solid option if you’re just looking for a simple place to stay without...

The Hotel Bahia Blanca is located directly across the street from Santa Marta Bay within a few minutes walk of the city center. Spacious, well-maintained, air conditioned rooms are located around a central courtyard where a Colombian breakfast is served. Employees are helpful...willing to call the bus terminal for schedule information...and wear a friendly smile. Comfort and convenience drew us back for 3 separate stays. We left only after being told that our next nightly rate would increase by a 16% IVA charge because we had been in the country for 30 days...28 by my count. Heeding the advice, we found an equally convenient hotel which, like every other place we stayed in Colombia, never mentioned the IVA levy. We'll return when we have a new 30 day clock. If you leave for a few days, reception will keep...

the rooms are pretty average, gives you the feeling that everything is old. the AC was not working properly, it was very weak, making you feel a lot of heat. ||||The location I would say is not bad or good, could be convenient, because you can easily catch a taxi in front of the hotel. nearby is the "Parque de los novios" where you can see most of the night life in town. with all the restaurants and bars around. ||||we used this as a central location and then wander around Taganga and Tayrona national park. ||||The Wifi does not reach all the rooms, so you have to be in public areas to get some connection. ||||The hotel includes breakfast, which is local food. The personal was very kind and helpful whenever they were needed.||||I wouldn't call cold water in the shower, because of the sun this comes out...